The UK government has delayed its planned ban on oil products derived from Russian crude oil entering the country from third countries such as India. The measure, originally intended to come into force this month, has been pushed back amid growing concerns about jet fuel supply disruptions. The government insists the delay is standard practice to avoid destabilising energy markets, but critics see it as a significant retreat from support for Ukraine.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch launched a fierce attack during Prime Ministers Questions, accusing Sir Keir Starmer of importing sanctioned Russian oil while simultaneously banning North Sea exploration. She told the Commons that the money from Russian oil would be used to fund the killing of Ukrainian soldiers, adding that the combination of policies made it look like the Soviets had won.
The controversy comes as up to 60-70 percent of the UKs imported jet fuel originates from the Gulf region, particularly Kuwait, which is currently not exporting due to the Iran conflict. China has also halted exports. Industry charts suggest that on current trajectories, Europe could face jet fuel shortages by autumn, which analysts believe is the real reason behind the governments decision to delay the Russian oil ban.
Labour backbenchers are reportedly frustrated by the communications strategy around the decision, which was seen as being slipped out rather than proactively managed. The government maintains there are no immediate supply shortages, but the acknowledgment by officials that they are worried about future supply has undermined that message. The situation highlights the tension between maintaining sanctions pressure on Russia and ensuring energy security for British consumers and businesses.